Elland Road to the West of Melbourne. In geographical terms, it’s the other side of the world. But for Yorkshire-based Leeds United fan Cam King, he’s found a new home and club to support in the A-League.
King along with several mates from Leeds saw the Green and Black for the first time in the club’s round 16 clash with Adelaide United at VU Whitten Oval.
A “long-time suffering Leeds United fan” who left the hospital as a newborn in a full Leeds kit, King was visiting Australia, and after following Western United even before the season started, was keen to get to a game.
How did he know about Western United?
King is friends with the Western Service Crew’s inaugural capo, Ricky Buxton.
The two met up once King was in Melbourne and suddenly, they were on the terrace together supporting the Green and Black.
“A close friend and fellow Leeds United fan informed me of Western United months before the beginning of the A-League season and I’ve followed every game and the journey of Western’s first season,” King told wufc.com.au.
“When I arrived back in Melbourne I met with Ricky and couldn’t miss my first opportunity to watch the boys.”
The 17,000km journey was worth it for King, who along with his mates witnessed one of the games of the season in Footscray.
Unfortunately, United was on the wrong end of a seven-goal thriller, despite coming from 3-1 down to level the scores early in the second half.
Captain and international marquee Alessandro Diamanti scored a superb goal to make it 3-3 – a strike that was of little surprise to King.
The Leeds fan was already aware of Diamanti’s quality from his Premier League days at West Ham and Watford.
“I am familiar with him [Diamanti] yes. Even though Leeds are in the Championship I follow Premier League football closely.
“He’s an amazing player at any level and a great addition to the Green and Black.
“My highlight of the day was 100% Diamanti’s goal to take us level.”
Despite a disappointing result, King’s experience was unforgettable, finding himself right amongst Western United’s most passionate fans.
“It was a thoroughly enjoyable day in the active area with the Western Service Crew.”
“I brought a few lads from Leeds along too and they loved it.”
